Bill Maher Criticizes Shift to 'Sex Worker' Terminology in Oscars Commentary

The comedian argues that updated language like 'sex worker' obscures the harsh realities of prostitution while reflecting Hollywood's evolving cultural narratives.

• Bill Maher discussed the term 'sex worker' during a segment on his HBO show, questioning its impact on public perception of prostitution.
• The commentary followed the Oscar success of 'Anora,' a Sean Baker film about a stripper, which won Best Picture and Best Actress for Mikey Madison.
• Maher expressed concerns that the phrase 'sex worker' sanitizes the often harsh and exploitative realities of prostitution, likening it to corporate rebranding of social issues.
• He praised 'Anora' as a great film but noted Baker's recurring focus on sex work in his filmography, including 'Tangerine' and 'The Florida Project.'
• Maher reiterated his past support for legalizing prostitution but criticized what he sees as Hollywood's virtue signaling in its portrayal of the subject.

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